Self-compacted geopolymer concrete incorporating waste ceramic powder

This study explores the fresh state properties, as well as the mechanical and microstructural properties, of self-compacting geopolymer concrete (SCGPC) using class F-fly ash, ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS), and waste ceramic powder (WCP) as binders. Due to their high silica and alumina content, fly ash and GGBFS are predominantly used as raw materials in geopolymer concrete (GPC) production. In this study, we developed a new SCGPC using waste ceramic powder under ambient curing as a new construction material. Three factors were considered: binder content, including three combinations of GGFBS and WCP, dosage of molarity, and dosage of superplasticizer with different proportions. A mix containing 60% fly ash, 30% GGBFS, and 10% WCP with a sodium hydroxide solution of 12 molarity and a 6% dosage of superplasticizer showed the highest compressive strength of SCGPC at 27.3 MPa for 28 days cured samples, along with the highest slump value 702 mm. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirms the improved microstructure of the specimen with F60G30W10 compared to the control specimen. Furthermore, XRD analysis confirmed the presence of quartz, mullite, and calcium silicate hydrate products, which were the main contributors to the enhancement of properties.